DIY Makeup: Create Your Own Makeup Cocktails

Still searching for the perfect shade of lip gloss or foundation? It may already be in your makeup bag. Find out how to create custom DIY makeup like the pros

There's a reason you are loyal to your go-to makeup products: They work. They look great with your complexion. But what if we told you that you could make your favorite makeup look even better by mixing it with other beauty products you already have? Just call this little act of fine-tuning: DIY makeup.

Customizing your own makeup is a technique that top pros have been using behind the scenes since the dawn of primping. "Mixing makeup creates a one-of-a-kind tone and texture that you can keep tweaking until you find what works best for your skin and complexion," explains makeup artist Jeffrey Paul. "Plus, it’s the best way to adjust the depth, brilliance, and sheen of your products."

Think you need to be a pro to pull off this kind of makeup mixology? Trust us, it's easier than a kindergarten paint class. And the payoff is huge, say makeup artists: Mixing your makeup and products is the ideal way to fake professional blending and application techniques.

Another big bonus of using this technique: You save a heap of cash. You know that old product graveyard underneath your bathroom sink? Learning how to mix products can bring all of those half-used oldies back from the dead.

Here's the rub: You have to know which products complement each other. (Like, say, knowing that you can mix that foundation that wasn't quite right for your skin with sunscreen to cover up body scars and blemishes.) Check out these easy -- and effective -- beauty concoctions to start mixing now. Mastering the DIY makeup trend has never been easier.

A good list. This spring I've been having good results combining two tinted lip balms -- one high moisture but unfortunately low tint, the other high color payoff but unfortunately not moisturizing enough. Together, they're perfect.